Obituary of Richard W. Klein

Richard Walter Klein, 83, passed away peacefully surrounded by family Tuesday, October 5, 2021. Richard was a Methodist Minister for 43 years with parishes in Paterson, Randolph, Bloomfield, Vernon, Caldwell and Livingston, NJ. 

During his long career, Richard was a dedicated Pastor and community leader. His accomplishments were vast, and he was most proud of supporting his faith as a Chairman of the Bloomfield Civil Rights Commission, serving as Trustee for the League of Family Services, and shepherding relations between all faiths on the Clergy Association. 

Richard was an advocate for all people. He marched with John Lewis and Martin Luther King Jr. in Selma, he supported the LGBTQIA community, he counseled through the Drug Abuse Council in every parish, and he and his family sponsored refugees in their home and parish.

He was passionate about children's ministry, working as a youth leader for many parishes and always including a separate sermon for the children in the congregation. 

Richard is predeceased by his parents, Viola (MacBride) Klein and Walter Klein. He is survived by his wife, Louise Klein; children Glenn Klein (Patrick Butler), Gretchen Klein, Robyn Casella (Jason Casella); sister Beverly Lausch (Gary Lausch); grandchildren Sara Rhinesmith, Jacob Rhinesmith, Emily Rhinesmith, Julia Rhinesmith, Tyler Casella and Gwen Casella; as well as many nephews, nieces, grand nephews and grand nieces. 

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, October 10th at Codey Funeral Home, 54 Roseland Ave., Caldwell, NJ, from 4-7 PM. A funeral service will be held at Caldwell United Methodist in Caldwell, NJ, on Monday, October 11th at 10 AM.